Flights to Palermo, North Dakota from NT$18,473

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be speeding through airport security and having a blast in Palermo in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you pack the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and wear closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The trick is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Palermo in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.